withstand

verb

with·​stand with-ˈstand How to pronounce withstand (audio)
wit͟h-
withstood with-ˈstu̇d How to pronounce withstand (audio)
wit͟h-
; withstanding

transitive verb

1
a
: to stand up against : oppose with firm determination
especially : to resist successfully
b
: to be proof against : resist the effect of
withstand the impact of a landingCurrent Biography
2
archaic : to stop or obstruct the course of
Choose the Right Synonym for withstand

oppose, combat, resist, withstand mean to set oneself against someone or something.

oppose can apply to any conflict, from mere objection to bitter hostility or warfare.

opposed the plan

combat stresses the forceful or urgent countering of something.

combat disease

resist implies an overt recognition of a hostile or threatening force and a positive effort to counteract or repel it.

resisting temptation

withstand suggests a more passive resistance.

trying to withstand peer pressure

Examples of withstand in a Sentence

cookware that can withstand high temperatures I couldn't withstand the rigors of army life. They withstood attacks from many critics.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That means revising credit and insurance models, investing in soil and water resilience, and funding diversified food systems that can withstand disruption. Felicia Jackson, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025 One health industry lobbyist, who asked not to be identified to speak candidly without risking professional repercussions, said there was a sense on Capitol Hill that hospitals could withstand the funding cuts. Phil Galewitz, NPR, 14 July 2025 The education programs likely can't withstand a review that stretches into the school year, state education leaders say. ABC News, 14 July 2025 Generic Modern Container Tiny Home This 20-foot-deep compact house is crafted from high-quality materials, including durable steel designed to withstand harsh weather, according to the seller. Toni Sutton, People.com, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for withstand

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Old English withstandan, from with against + standan to stand

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of withstand was before the 12th century

Cite this Entry

“Withstand.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/withstand. Accessed 21 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

withstand

verb
with·​stand with-ˈstand How to pronounce withstand (audio)
wit͟h-
withstood -ˈstu̇d How to pronounce withstand (audio) ; withstanding
: to stand against : resist
especially : to oppose successfully

More from Merriam-Webster on withstand

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